Introducing Kunishima Co., Ltd. – A Legacy of Fine Fabric Craftsmanship
Kunishima Co., Ltd., a textile manufacturer based in Ichinomiya, Aichi Prefecture, has been introduced in a previous blog post by our editor, Mr. Kayaba. We are pleased to announce that we have now started handling fabrics from Kunishima at our company, Yamamoto, and we would like to take this opportunity to introduce some of their representative fabric collections.
Read the original blog post here
About Kunishima
Kunishima Co., Ltd. is a textile manufacturer with a long history, founded in 1850 (the 3rd year of the Kaei era). The company was established by the founder, Takeemon Kunishima, who was a samurai from the Owari region, with the goal of contributing to Japan’s industrial development through the textile industry. Rooted in the Owari region, Kunishima has grown alongside Japan’s industrial progress and continues to deliver high-quality textile products to the world.
Leveraging the Unique Features of the Bishu Region
Kunishima is located in the Bishu region, one of Japan’s foremost textile manufacturing areas. The region is known for its abundant soft water, which gives the finished fabric a soft and rich texture. This area also benefits from a highly specialized division of labor, allowing for the production of a wide variety of high-quality fabrics. Utilizing this environment, Kunishima produces high-grade fabrics for men’s suits as well as a diverse range of fabrics that meet the needs of the times.
The History of Kunishima
Kunishima’s history dates back to the mid-19th century, a time when Japan was on the cusp of opening up to the world. The country was under pressure to improve its national strength through industrial development. Kunishima’s founder, Takeemon Kunishima, believed that industrial production was as important as military and political power for supporting Japan, which led him to establish Kunishima Shoten in 1850. Starting with the manufacturing of woolen fabrics, Kunishima became a leading force in the Bishu textile industry. In 1981, the company was restructured into Chuokuo Kunishima Co., Ltd., which now oversees both spinning and woolen fabric production.
Quality Control
Kunishima is renowned for its strict quality control system, ensuring dimensional stability and ease of sewing. Their fabrics are highly precise, allowing patternmakers to faithfully reproduce their intended designs. The fabrics are delicate in finish yet possess excellent durability. To maintain consistent quality across all products, Kunishima implements rigorous quality management throughout every stage of production, continuously pursuing high-grade materials.
Corporate Philosophy
Kunishima aims to support individuals in expressing their “true selves” through its products. The company believes that its fabrics are key items in helping people achieve their ideal lifestyles through their personal style. While honoring tradition, Kunishima strives to deliver products that align with evolving values and continue to provide value to its customers.
Fabric Collections
HERDREX Collection
The HERDREX collection is a series of domestically woven fabrics produced on Kunishima’s own looms. The company focuses on using high-quality wool and employs advanced techniques in weaving, fabric composition, finishing, and dyeing. This collection includes a wide variety of solid colors and is sure to satisfy a range of needs.
- NAVY DEPTHS
- Brilliant Max (Glossy Stretch)
- Grace Flannel
- Silk & Wool
- PREMIUM VENETIAN
- Classico
- 80Super 100’s Nine Month
(Total: 80 fabric styles)
BEST SELECTION
The BEST SELECTION is a curated collection of standard fabrics, perfect for business suits. Featuring a wide range of solid colors and woven patterns, it is designed to cater to a broad audience without distinctions of age or gender.
- 3seasons
- Allgender
- Lustre
- davaumi (Super 110’s)
(Total: 82 fabric styles)
Conclusion
As you can see, Kunishima continues to produce fabrics using traditional methods, slowly and meticulously woven by skilled artisans. There is no doubt that their passion and dedication are woven into every inch of fabric they create. If you’re interested, we will be regularly updating our fabric offerings, so please do take a look. For inquiries regarding accessories or sewing services, please feel free to contact us.
After completing a sewing apprenticeship at a tailor in Ginza, I joined our company. I will use the knowledge I learned during my time as a craftsman to solve our customers’ problems.